Mitsubishi Eclipse Years to Avoid and The Best Year

Mitsubishi Eclipse Years to Avoid – The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sports car that was first introduced in 1989. It has become a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and fun-to-drive car.

However, not all years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse are created equal.

In this article, we will discuss the Mitsubishi Eclipse years to avoid and the best years to look for when shopping for a used Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Overview of a Mitsubishi Eclipse

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sports car that was produced from 1989 to 2012. It was available in a variety of trim levels, including the GS, GST, GSX, RS, and GT.

The Eclipse was initially introduced as a front-wheel-drive coupe, but in later years, an all-wheel-drive version was also available.

The Eclipse was known for its sleek styling, performance-oriented handling, and affordable price tag. It was a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking for an affordable sports car that could be easily modified and customized.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Years to Avoid

Not all years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse are created equal. There are a few years that are known to have significant issues, making them less desirable for potential buyers. Here are the Mitsubishi Eclipse years to avoid:

2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse was plagued with transmission issues. Owners reported problems with the automatic transmission slipping, shifting roughly, and failing altogether. The engine had a tendency to overheat, causing significant damage.

2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse suffered from several problems, including transmission issues, engine problems, and electrical issues. The engine was known to have a faulty timing belt tensioner, which could lead to catastrophic engine failure.

2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse was another problematic year. Owners reported issues with the transmission, suspension, and electrical system. The engine had a tendency to consume oil, leading to premature engine failure.

If you are looking to buy a used Mitsubishi Eclipse, it is best to avoid these years unless you are willing to take on the risk of potential repairs.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Best Year

While there are some years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse to avoid, there are also some years that are known to be reliable and high-performing. Here are the best years for Mitsubishi Eclipse:

1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse was the first year of the second-generation Eclipse. It was available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 1998 Eclipse is known for its reliability and performance.

1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is similar to the 1998 model year. It is also known for its reliability and performance. The 1999 Eclipse was available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse was the last year of the third-generation Eclipse. It was available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6 engine. The 2003 Eclipse is known for its performance and handling.

2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse was the last year of production for the Eclipse. It was available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.8-liter V6 engine. The 2011 Eclipse is known for its performance and handling, as well as its modern amenities.

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Mitsubishi Eclipse Most Common Problems

While some years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse are known to be reliable, there are still some common problems that owners may experience.

Here are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Eclipse:

1. Engine Problems

The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been known to have engine problems, especially in older models. Common issues include oil consumption, overheating, and timing belt failure. It is important to keep up with regular maintenance to prevent these issues.

3. Transmission Problems

Transmission issues are common in the Mitsubishi Eclipse, especially in certain model years. Owners have reported problems with slipping, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure.

3. Electrical Problems

Electrical issues are another common problem with the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This can include issues with the battery, alternator, and wiring.

4. Suspension Problems

Suspension problems can cause a rough ride and poor handling in the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Common issues include worn-out shocks and struts, as well as broken or damaged suspension components.

5. Braking Issues

The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been known to have issues with the braking system. This can include problems with the brake pads, rotors, and calipers.

It is important to have any potentially used Eclipse thoroughly inspected by a mechanic before making a purchase to avoid any unexpected repairs.

What to Look For When Shopping for a Used Mitsubishi Eclipse?

When shopping for a used Mitsubishi Eclipse, there are a few things to look for to ensure that you are getting a reliable and high-performing vehicle:

1. Check for maintenance records: Make sure to ask the seller for maintenance records and check to see if the car has been regularly serviced.

This can give you an idea of how well the car has been taken care of and if there are any potential issues to look out for.

2. Inspect the exterior and interior: Take a close look at the exterior and interior of the car to check for any damage or wear and tear. Look for dents, scratches, and rust on the exterior, and check the seats, carpets, and dashboard for any damage or stains.

3. Test drive the car: Take the car for a test drive to get a feel for how it handles and performs. Listen for any unusual noises, pay attention to how it shifts and brakes, and make sure all the electronics are working properly.

4. Have a pre-purchase inspection: Consider having a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic to ensure that the car is in good condition and there are no hidden issues.

Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse a reliable car?

Some model years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse are known to be reliable, while others have had significant issues. It is important to research the specific year and model you are interested in before making a purchase.

Are eclipses easy to work on?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a popular car for enthusiasts to modify and customize, and many owners find it easy to work on. Certain repairs may require a professional mechanic.

Why did they quit making the Mitsubishi Eclipse?

Mitsubishi stopped making the Eclipse in 2012 due to declining sales and a shift in focus towards SUVs and crossovers.

Is Mitsubishi Eclipse expensive to fix?

The cost of repairs for the Mitsubishi Eclipse will depend on the specific issue and the model year of the car. Some repairs can be expensive, especially if they involve the engine or transmission.

Why did Mitsubishi stop making good cars?

Mitsubishi’s focus shifted towards SUVs and crossovers, and they have also struggled with financial difficulties in recent years. Mitsubishi still produces reliable and high-quality vehicles.

Do Mitsubishi Eclipses have a good engine?

Some model years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse have a reputation for having a good engine, especially those with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse fun to drive?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is known for its performance-oriented handling and is often described as a fun car to drive.

Is a Mitsubishi Eclipse a sports car?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is considered by many to be a sports car, especially in its earlier model years. It has a sleek, sporty design and is known for its agile handling and performance-oriented engine options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Eclipse is a popular sports car with a rich history and a loyal fanbase. While some model years are known to have issues, there are also many reliable and high-performing options available.

When shopping for a used Mitsubishi Eclipse, it is important to do your research and inspect the car carefully to ensure that you are getting a reliable and enjoyable vehicle.

With the right maintenance and care, the Mitsubishi Eclipse can provide years of fun and exciting driving experiences.

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